Thinking about going to the Boundary Waters? If you're preparing for your first canoe trip in this northern wonderland, you probably have a lot of questions. Our team of wilderness experts are here to give you a sneak peak of what it's like to travel in this northern paradise.
Paddling and portaging
Paddling can be hard work and portaging can be even harder - it’s a fact of life! That being said, there are various ways to enjoy the Boundary Waters, and many times, the biggest rewards come from stepping outside of your comfort zone. In time, you just might be surprised at how much you’ll love a buggy, half mile portage!
Mosquitoes, flies and more bugs
There can be a lot of bugs in the Boundary Waters - so be prepared. No matter the season, bring a bug net. In fact, bring a couple in case you lose one. Bugs can be especially bad in early season, so be sure to pack plenty of bug dope. The good news is, once you get on the water, they go away.
Bears and other wildlife
Black bears make their home in the Boundary Waters, and unfortunately, many know that humans carry a lot of yummy food with them and are not shy about walking into an occupied campsite. The best way to keep bears and other critters from disrupting your camp is to make your site as uninteresting as possible. Clean up after yourself. Store food in a way that locks away the scent and don’t make a mess.
You’ll probably hear lots of unfamiliar noises
Sound carries over the water. If you’re camping on a calm night, you’ll hear a lot of noises, which can really freak you out. A duck flapping its wings on the other side of the lake can sound like it’s right outside of your tent. And then the chipmunks or birds in camp can sound like bears. And if you never heard a beaver slap the water with its tail, the sound can be terrifying. There’s nothing to be worried about - it’s just unfamiliar sounds!
Rain and weather
Rain happens. And sometimes the wind will prevent you from paddling. But as the old saying goes, there really isn’t any such thing as bad weather, just bad clothing. Rainy days are ideal excuses to drink extra hot chocolate or Cup-of -Soup packets. And if you’re stuck in a tent, games of Gin Rummy, Cribbage, and 500 are great reminders of how much fun people had before Wi-Fi.
Other people
You’ll probably run into other people when you’re in the Boundary Waters. They’re out here for the same reason you are: To them. Keep noise down (sound travels over water). Start early and camp early to ensure you get a good site.
Remember, every trip is different, so no matter how well you prepare, your bound to discover something magical and new when you’re out there.
For more resources on how to plan and prepare for your Boundary Waters canoe trip, visit
MORE RESOURCES
Get your BWCA permit - www.friends-bwca.org/explore/...
Explore Boundary Waters Routes - www.friends-bwca.org/bwca-can...
Donate to keep the Boundary Waters Wild - www.friends-bwca.org/donate/
Note: No footage was taken within the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Please abide by regulations and the strict no drone policy in the Wilderness area.
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